Control box

ABSTRACT

A landscape control box includes a base portion and a facepack. The facepack supports a rotary shaft extending along an axis in a first direction. A cover has a hole aligned with the rotary shaft. A knob has a receptacle and a first portion of an interacting structure. The receptacle engages with the rotary shaft so as to transfer rotational motion of the knob to the rotary shaft. The first portion of the interacting structure engages with a second portion of the interacting structure on the cover so as to inhibit movement of the knob. The control box can receive one or more modules for enhancing functionality of the control box and/or superseding station programming stored by the control box or input by the user. The control box includes openings that are sized and shaped to allow attachment of different sized pipes and conduits to the control box.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 16/568,113, filed Sep. 11, 2019, and entitled“CONTROL BOX.” The entire contents of the above application is herebyincorporated by reference and made a part of this specification. Any andall priority claims identified in the Application Data Sheet, or anycorrection thereto, are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR §1.57.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This application relates to control boxes. Applications for use of thecontrol box include as an irrigation control box, a lighting controlbox, or other landscape control box.

DISCUSSION OF THE RELATED ART

Landscape control boxes used for irrigation can control sprinklers,valves, and other irrigation devices in an irrigation system. Landscapecontrol boxes used for lighting can control spot lights, path lights,switches, and other lighting devices in a lighting system.

Depending on the intended use, the boxes can include many componentssuch as a facepack, a microcontroller, various operator inputs devicessuch as knobs, switches and buttons, a display, output terminals toconnect to irrigation valves or relays, light switches to connect tolights, input terminals to connect to external sensors such as moisture,rainfall, time, or ambient light, and electronic circuitry to connecteach of the components to their appropriate other component(s).

SUMMARY

An aspect is directed to a landscape control box that comprises a baseportion having a plurality of side walls and a back wall forming aninterior, and a facepack supported by the base portion. The facepackcomprises a printed circuit board supporting a rotary shaft extendingalong an axis in a first direction, a cover supporting the printedcircuit board so that the printed circuit board is disposed between thecover and the base portion at least when the facepack is supported bythe base portion, the cover having a hole aligned with the rotary shaft,and a knob disposed at least partially in the hole and having areceptacle and one or more posts, the receptacle engaging with therotary shaft so as to transfer rotational motion of the knob to therotary shaft, the one or more posts engaging with the cover so as toinhibit movement of the knob along the axis in the first direction.

Another aspect is directed to a landscape control box that comprises abase portion having a plurality of side walls and a back wall forming aninterior and a facepack supported by the base portion. The facepackcomprises a component supporting a rotary shaft extending along an axisin a first direction, a cover supporting the component so that thecomponent is disposed between the cover and the base portion at leastwhen the facepack is supported by the base portion, the cover having aninteracting structure, and a knob disposed on the cover and having areceptacle and an interacting structure, the receptacle being configuredto operably couple to the rotary shaft, the interacting structure of theknob engaging with the interacting structure of the cover so as toinhibit movement of the knob along the axis in the first direction.

Another aspect is directed to a landscape control box that comprises abase portion having a plurality of side walls and a back wall forming aninterior and a facepack supported by the base portion. The facepackcomprises a rotary shaft extending along an axis in a first direction, acover supporting the rotary shaft so that at least a portion of therotary shaft is disposed between the cover and the base portion at leastwhen the facepack is supported by the base portion, the cover having afirst interacting structure, and a knob disposed on the cover and havinga hub and a second interacting structure, the hub being configured tooperably couple to the rotary shaft, the first interacting structureengaging with the second interacting structure so as to inhibit movementof the knob along the axis in the first direction.

Another aspect is directed to an irrigation system comprising a controlbox; a facepack supported by the control box and configured to enable auser to enter and/or select a first watering schedule, the facepackcomprising a first memory configured to store an operational programthat implements the first watering schedule and a first processorconfigured to execute the first operational program by having stationsturned off or on; and at least one module engageable with the facepack,the at least one module comprising a second memory configured to store asecond operational program that implements a second watering scheduleand a second processor configured to send instructions to the firstprocessor to execute the second operational program, wherein the firstprocessor is configured to execute the second operational program basedon the instructions received from the second processor.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein the instructions supersede,override, or replace the first operational program.

Another variation of the aspect above is, wherein the module comprises awireless communication module configured to receive the second wateringschedule.

Another aspect is directed to a method to turn on and off stations in anirrigation site, the method comprising accepting inputs on a facepackfrom a user that enable the user to enter and/or select a first wateringschedule; storing the first watering schedule in a first memory that isoperatively connected to a first processor configured to execute thefirst watering schedule; receiving a second watering schedule from amodule removably engaged with the facepack; and executing the secondwatering schedule by the first processor to turn on and off stations inthe irrigation site.

A variation of the aspect above further comprises superseding,overriding, or replacing the first watering schedule with the secondwatering schedule.

Another variation of the aspect above further comprises wirelesslyreceiving the second watering schedule at the module.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present inventions are described with reference to the accompanyingdrawings, in which like reference characters reference like elements,and wherein.

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a control box with an outer coverin a closed position secured to a base portion according to a preferredembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is similar to FIG. 1 except the outer cover is in an openposition revealing a facepack within the control box. A slot is shown ina side of the facepack for receiving one or more modules.

FIG. 2A is similar to FIG. 2 except one of the one or more modules isaligned with the slot prior to the module being inserted into the slotand engaging with the facepack.

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the control box of FIG. 1, with the outercover and the facepack removed from the base portion. The facepack isfurther shown dissembled into a housing and a terminal cover.

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the housing from FIG. 3 showing a printedcircuit board and a knob disassembled from a back side and a front sideof a cover of the housing, respectively. A rotary shaft extends from theprinted circuit board towards a hole in the cover and is positioned toallow the knob to engage the rotary shaft along an axis when the printedcircuit board is secured to the back side of the cover. Interactingstructure mounts the knob to the cover to inhibit the knob fromdisengaging from the rotary shaft.

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of the knob from FIG. 4 showing aridge on a front side of the knob for a user to selectively rotate therotary shaft of the printed circuit board when the knob is engaged withthe rotary shaft.

FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of the knob from FIG. 4 showing a huband a first portion of the interacting structure configured forengagement with the rotary shaft and a second portion of the interactingstructure on the cover, respectively.

FIG. 7 is a front view of the housing of the facepack with the knobpartially installed on the cover.

FIG. 8 is a cross-section view taken along lines 8-8 of FIG. 7 showingthe knob partially installed on the rotary shaft.

FIG. 9 is a close-up partial view from FIG. 8 showing the hub of theknob partially installed on the rotary shaft and the one or more postsaligned with the hole but not engaged with the lip of the cover.

FIG. 10 is similar to FIG. 7 except the knob has been pushed furthertowards the cover engaging the one or more posts with the lip of thecover so as to inhibit removal of the knob from the rotary shaft.

FIG. 11 is a cross-section view taken along lines 11-11 of FIG. 10showing the knob installed on the rotary shaft.

FIG. 12 is a close-up partial view from FIG. 11 showing the hub of theknob installed on the rotary shaft and the one or more posts engagedwith the lip on the cover inhibiting removal of the knob from the rotaryshaft.

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of the module from FIG. 2A showing agroove on an edge of the module which engages with a guide on theprinted circuit board to maintain alignment of connector on the modulewith the one or more contacts as the module is being inserted into theslot.

FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of the module from FIG. 2A showingthe connector which engages with the one or more contacts on thefacepack when the module is fully inserted into the slot.

FIG. 15 is an exploded view of the module from FIG. 2A showing a printedcircuit board supporting one or more electronic components within themodule.

FIG. 16 is a front, left, bottom perspective view showing the baseportion comprising one or more openings for connections to the controlbox. The power cord is shown extending through the one or more openings.

FIG. 17 is similar to FIG. 16 except the control box is configured to behardwired to the power grid as an alternative to employing the powercord in FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 is a front, right, top perspective view of an embodiment of abase portion.

FIG. 19 is a front plan view of the base portion of FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a back plan view of the base portion of FIG. 18.

FIG. 21 is a left-side plan view of the base portion of FIG. 18.

FIG. 22 is a right-side plan view of the base portion of FIG. 18.

FIG. 23 is a top plan view of the base portion of FIG. 18.

FIG. 24 is a bottom plan view of the base portion of FIG. 18.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Landscape systems often include control boxes having facepacks or otheruser interface portions which allow a user of the landscape system toset various controls. The control boxes are often mounted on walls,posts, in sheds, in electrical boxes, or in other fixed positions.Control boxes are often placed outside and thus experience significantswings in ambient temperature. Such swings or thermal cycling can, forexample, expand or contract components within the control box adverselyimpacting durability of the components. It is desirable to providecontrol boxes and facepacks that have controls that are intuitive to theuser and have improved durability in adverse weather conditions.

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a control box 10 with an outercover 14 in a closed position secured to a base portion 12 according toa preferred embodiment of the present invention. The control box 10 canbe employed to control different sets of features in a landscape systemincluding sets of features related to irrigation, lighting, and/or otheraspects of landscape systems. In an embodiment, the control box 10comprises an irrigation controller configured to control irrigationvalves. In another embodiment, the control box 10 comprises a lightingcontroller configured to control lighting fixtures. In a furtherembodiment, the control box 10 comprises a landscape controllerconfigured to control sprinkler valves and lighting fixtures.

FIG. 2 is similar to FIG. 1 except the outer cover 14 is in an openedposition revealing an inner cover or facepack 30 within the control box10. In certain embodiments, the control box 10 provides the userintuitive controls having improved durability in adverse weatherconditions. In certain embodiments, the control box 10 is furtherconfigured for the user to easily install or remove one or more modules128.

In certain embodiments, the facepack 30 can have a back portion. In suchan embodiment that includes the back portion, the user can disengage orremove the facepack 30 from a base portion 12 of the control box 10. Theuser can then reengage or couple the facepack 30 to the base portion 12.

In certain embodiments that have the back portion, one or more of thefeatures described as being a component of the facepack 30 can insteadbe a component of the base portion 12. For example, outputs, such as oneor more terminals 68 can be mounted to the interior of the base portion12 and not to the facepack 30. In such an embodiment for example, thefacepack 30 may still comprise the printed circuit board 86, at leastone housing, and/or one or more buttons 36, knobs 40, switches, or otheruser input structures.

As illustrated, the control box 10 can include the base portion 12. Theouter cover 14 can be connected to the base portion 12. As illustrated,the outer cover 14 can be connected to the base portion 12 via a hinge16. The outer cover 14 can be configured to rotate about the hinge 16between the closed position (FIG. 1) and the opened position (FIG. 2).In the closed position, the outer cover 14 can engage at a latch 18 onthe base portion 12. The latch 18 can include an aperture 20,protrusion, indentation, ridge, detent, or other structure configured toreleasably couple with a portion of the outer cover 14. In certainembodiments, the outer cover 14 includes a recess 22 configured toreleasably couple to the aperture 20 of the latch 18. In certainembodiments, the control box 10 does not include the outer cover 14. Insuch embodiments, the facepack 30 itself provides protection from theweather or it is configured to be positioned indoors, or in a placeprotected from the weather.

In some embodiments, the base portion 12 and the outer cover 14 eachinclude a loop 24, 26 (FIG. 4). The loop 24, 26 can receive, forexample, a padlock. The padlock provides the user the ability to limitthird party access to the facepack 30 and its settings. In otherembodiments, the base portion 12 and the outer cover 14 include a lock(not shown). The lock can be, for example, a rotating or translatinglock supported by the outer cover 14 and configured to selectivelyinterface with the base portion 12 (e.g., via rotation of a key, knob,or other user input structure connected to the lock).

In certain embodiments, the control box 10 includes a power cord 28. Thepower cord 28 is configured to conduct electricity from the power gridto the control box 10. Alternatively to employing the power cord 28, thecontrol box 10 can be hardwired to the power grid.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the control box 10 can include the inner coveror facepack 30. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of thefacepack 30 is disposed between the base portion 12 and the outer cover14 at least when the outer cover 14 is in the closed position. Thefacepack 30 can be connected to the base portion 12. In certainembodiments, the facepack 30 is connected to the base portion 12 via oneor more fasteners 62 (see FIG. 3). In certain embodiments, the facepack30 is connected to the base portion 12 via a hinge or other mechanicalsystem (not shown).

The facepack 30 can include one or more buttons 36, knobs 40, switches,or other user input structures. In some embodiments, the facepack 30includes one or more screens 34 (e.g., touch screens and/or displays) ona front side 32 of the facepack 30. In this way, the facepack 30 canfunction as the user control interface for, for example, an irrigationsystem and/or a lighting system. For example when configured as anirrigation controller, the user or technician can use the facepack 30 tomodify irrigation schedules, flow rates, and many other features orparameters. In certain embodiments, the facepack 30 enables the user toenter and/or select a watering schedule. In certain embodiments, thefacepack 30 comprises a memory configured to store an operationalprogram that implements the watering schedule and a processor configuredto execute the operational program.

In certain embodiments, the control box 10 is further configured for theuser to easily install or remove the one or more modules 128 customizingthe sets of features provided by the control box 10. For example, thecontrol box 10 can include a slot 42 (most clearly shown in FIGS. 2 and2A) in a first side 44 of the facepack 30. The slot 42 is sized andshaped to allow the one or more modules 128 to pass through the firstside 44 of the facepack 30 and engage within an interior of the controlbox 10. In certain embodiments, a removable door 98 (most clearly shownin FIG. 3) is disposed over the slot 42 to minimize dirt and otherforeign contaminants from entering the control box 10 through the slot42 when the one or more modules 128 are not installed and filling theslot 42.

In some embodiments the one or more modules 128 may be a feature modulesuch as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,953,517; 8,977,400; and9,678,485 which are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentireties. The feature module can have various designs to meetparticular needs. Certain embodiments of the feature module modifyand/or add features to the control box 10. The added features cancustomize the existing control box 10 for a particular site.

In certain embodiments, the added features allow the control box 10 tomeet the changing watering needs of the particular irrigation site byallowing the control box 10 to be upgraded. In certain embodiments, thefeature module allows the control box 10 to be easily and economicallyconfigured and/or upgraded by the user to meet the specific needs of theassociated irrigation site. This is accomplished by installing at leastone feature module that communicates with a processor of the control box10 and alters the operational program, changes a functionality of anoperational program executed by the processor, and/or providesadditional memory capacity. The term “landscape control box” as usedherein refers to a device, which can function as an irrigationcontroller, and optionally perform additional functions on a sitebesides watering, such as the control of landscape lights and waterfeatures, or which can function as a controller that controls anycombination of or any one of the functions of a lighting controller anda water feature controller.

The feature module allows the homeowner or professional to purchase abase control box 10 with only the features needed for the particularirrigation site. Features can easily be added at a later date to theinstalled control box 10. In an aspect, the feature module augments thefunctionality of the control box 10 by permitting access to programmingstored within the control box 10, providing memory within the featuremodule and accessible by the processor of the control box 10, orproviding programming stored within the memory of the feature module andaccessible by the processor of the control box 10. The feature modulecan provide the control panel of the control box 10 with additionalfunctionality that can be utilized by the user at the control panel.

The feature module can have various designs to meet particular needs.One form of the feature module is a simple electronic key that enablesand/or disables features already programmed into the existing memory ofthe control box 10. Another form of the feature module providesadditional memory, thereby allowing the control box 10 to handle morecomplex tasks not otherwise capable of being performed by the basecontrol box 10, such as a memory intensive data logging feature. Thefeature module may contain new programs that are downloaded into thecontrol box 10 and change the functionality of the operational programexecuted by the control box 10, thereby enhancing, adding to and/orotherwise changing the functional irrigation features available to theuser, such as providing the capability of modifying watering schedulesbased on ET data, or optimizing the flow of water through the irrigationpipes.

Another embodiment of the feature module takes the form of a standardsecure digital memory card, also known as an SD card that interfaceswith the control box 10 and allows the control box 10 to read and writedata files to the SD card.

In some embodiments the one or more modules 128 are configured as analternative control module. In contrast to the feature module describedabove, in certain embodiments, the alternative control module 128 takesover control of the control box 10 by superseding or overriding stationprogramming stored by the control box 10 or input by the user, such asmanual input by the user via the one or more buttons 36, knobs 40,switches, or other user input structures at the facepack 30, with itsown programming. In certain embodiments, the alternative control module128 inhibits any station programming from the controller ormicrocontroller of the control box 10. In certain embodiments, thealternative control module 128 takes over all station programming. Incertain embodiments, the alternative control module 128 manages theentire irrigation programming functions then sends a signal to thecontrol box 10 to turn a given station on or off when required. Incertain embodiments, the microcontroller in the control box 10 switchesthe outputs on or off, but only when instructed to do so by thealternative control module 128. This is very different from theaugmentation provided by the feature module described above. The featuremodules work in conjunction with the processor of the control box 10whereas the alternative control module 128 supersedes, overrides, orreplaces the programming executed by the processor of the control box10. An exemplary alternative control module 128 is illustrated in FIG.2A and further described with respect to FIGS. 13-15.

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the control box 10 of FIG. 1, with theouter cover 14 and the facepack 30 removed from the base portion 12. Thefacepack 30 is further shown dissembled into a housing 76 and a terminalcover 38. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the base portion 12 can have agenerally rectangular prism shape. Other shapes are also possible (e.g.,triangular or other polygonal prisms, cylindrical, conical,frustoconical, or other shapes).

In the illustrated example, the base portion 12 includes a first wall 46(e.g., a top wall), a second wall 48 (e.g., a bottom wall) opposite thefirst wall 46, a third wall 50 (e.g., a hinge wall) connected to andextending between the first and second walls 46, 48, and a fourth wall52 (e.g., a latch wall) opposite the third wall 50 and connected to andextending between the first and second walls 46, 48. The base portion 12can include a fifth wall 54 (e.g., a back wall or mounting wall)connected to one or more of the first, second, third, and fourth walls46, 48, 50, 52.

The base portion 12 can include a mounting structure configured tofacilitate mounting the base portion 12 to a wall, pole, tabletop,fence, or other mounting site. The mounting structure can be, forexample, one or more apertures for fasteners, one or more brackets,and/or other structures. The mounting structure(s) can be positioned ona rear surface (not shown) of the fifth wall 54. In some embodiments,one or more mounting structures are positioned on surfaces of the first,second, third, and fourth walls 46, 48, 50, 52.

The facepack 30 can have a second side 56 opposite the first side 44.The facepack 30 can further include a top side 58 and a bottom side 60.The bottom side 60 of the facepack 30 in the illustrated embodiment isalso a surface of the terminal cover 38.

FIG. 3 illustrates the terminal cover 38 disengaged from the housing 76exposing one or more terminals 68 of the housing 76. In certainembodiments, removal of the terminal cover 38 accesses a reset button 70of the housing 76. In certain embodiments, the user or technicianactivates the reset button 70 to set the set of features for the controlbox 10 to factory or other pre-established default values.

In certain embodiments, the housing 76 includes an engagement structure,such as one or more channels 72. The one or more channels 72 arepositioned on the housing 76 to engage with an engagement structure onthe terminal cover 38, such as one or more protrusions 74. In certainembodiments, the engagement between the one or more channels 72 and theone or more protrusions 74 facilitates the user or technician removingand re-installing the terminal cover 38 relative to the housing 76. Incertain embodiments, the terminal cover 38 is disposed so as to preventthe user or technician from accessing the one or more terminals 68 whenin a closed or first position and allow the user or technician to accessthe one or more terminals 68 when in a opened or second position.

The facepack 30 can have a back side 66. The back side 66 of thefacepack 30 can include a mounting structure for connecting to the baseportion 12. In certain embodiments, the back side 66 of the facepack 30comprises one or more receptacles 64. The one or more receptacles 64 areconfigured to receive the one or more fasteners 62 so as to connect thefacepack 30 to the base portion 12. In certain embodiments, once the oneor more fasteners 62 are disengaged from the one or more receptacles 64,the facepack 30 can be lifted off of the base portion 12.

In certain alternate embodiments, the second side 56 of the facepack 30includes one or more latching features such as a hinge or othermechanical system. The hinge can be configured to facilitate couplingbetween the second side 56 of the facepack 30 and the base portion 12.In such an embodiments, the facepack 30 can be swung open relative tothe base portion 12.

In certain embodiments, the interior of the base portion 12 compriseselectronics, for example, a power supply 78, microcontroller, memory,and/or other electrical components known to a person having ordinaryskill in the art. In certain embodiments, the control box 10 implementsstation programming stored in the memory of the control box 10. Incertain embodiments, the control box 10 implements station programminginput by the user, such as through manual input via the one or morebuttons 36, knobs 40, switches, or other user input structures at thefacepack 30. In certain embodiments, the control box 10 manages theentire irrigation programming functions by sending signals, for example,to irrigation valves that turn a given station on or off. In certainembodiments, the microcontroller in the control box 10 switches theoutputs on or off.

In certain embodiments, the power supply 78 is sized and shaped to be atleast partially disposed in the interior of the base portion 12. One ormore of the electronic components electrically connects to the facepack30 via one or more cables or wires. In certain embodiments, the one ormore electronic components disposed within the interior of the baseportion 12 electrically connects to the facepack 30 via a ribbon cable.

In certain embodiments, the interior of the base portion 12 comprises astrain relief post 80 and a clamp 82. In certain embodiments, the strainrelief post 80 is sized and shaped to allow the power chord 28 to wrapat least partially around the strain relief post 80. In certainembodiments, the clamp 82 attaches to the base portion 12 to secure thepower chord 28 in place after the power cord 28 is wrapped at leastpartially around the strain relief post 28.

In certain embodiments, the rotary shaft 88 extends from one side of amulti position rotary selector switch 122. In certain embodiments, themulti position rotary selector switch 122 is coupled to a component ofthe housing 86. In certain embodiments, the component is the printedcircuit board 86. For example, in certain embodiments, a portion of therotary shaft 88 extends from the rotary selector switch 122 which ismounted to a first side of the circuit board 86 through the circuitboard 86 towards the housing 76.

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the housing 76 from FIG. 3 showing theprinted circuit board 86 and the knob 40 disassembled from a back sideand a front side of a cover 84 of the housing 76, respectively. In FIG.4, the rotary shaft 88 extends from the printed circuit board 86 towardsa hole 90 in the cover 84. In certain embodiments the rotary shaft 88 ispositioned to allow the knob 40 to engage the rotary shaft 88 along theaxis 120 when the printed circuit board 86 is secured to the back sideof the cover 84.

In certain embodiments, the printed circuit board 86 includes the one ormore terminals 68. The one or more terminals 68 allow the user ortechnician to connect one or more wires coming from devices in thelandscaping to the control box 10.

In certain embodiments, the user or technician slides at least a portionof the one or more modules 128 through the slot 42 in the facepack 30and then into a guide 94 or recess. In the illustrated embodiment, theguide 94 or recess is disposed in the printed circuit board 86. In otherembodiments, the guide 94 is disposed in a structure separate from theprinted circuit board 86. In certain embodiments, the guide 94 incombination with the slot 42 facilitates the user or the technicianaligning a distal end of the one or more modules 128 with one or morecontacts 96 on the printed circuit board 86.

In certain embodiments, the one or more contacts 96 are grouped into aplurality of subgroups with each subgroup being configured to couple toa single module. In this way, the housing 76 is able to couple to theone or more modules 128 at the same time if desired.

In certain embodiments, the guide 94 has a rectangular shape. Of coursethe guide 94 can have other shapes depending on the shape of the one ormore modules 128. In certain embodiments, the guide 94 is sized toreceive the one or more modules 128. In certain embodiments, the slot 42is sized to receive the one or more modules 128. For example, in certainembodiments, the slot 42 is a double long slot sized to accept twomodules 128 arrange side-by-side. In certain embodiments, the facepack30 includes a second slot 42 to accept a second module.

The knob 40 and the cover 84 desirably include interacting structure tocouple the knob 40 to the cover 84. As will be clear from the disclosurebelow, the interacting structure mounts the knob 40 to the cover 84. Incertain embodiments, a portion of the interacting structure desirable isformed on the knob 40 and another portion of the interacting structureis formed on the cover 84. The term “mount,” when used with reference tothe relation between the knob 40 and the cover 84, does not imply thatthe knob 40 is immobilized or fixed. Rather, this term is meant todescribe the condition in which the interacting structure inhibitsmovement of the knob 40 relative to the cover 84 in at least one degreeof freedom (e.g., forward/backward or parallel to axis 120, up/down,left/right, yaw, pitch, or roll). In certain embodiments, inhibitingmovement does not mean the knob 40 cannot be removed from the cover 84if significant tension is applied to the knob 40. The user or technicianwould not be expected to apply tension, let alone significant tension,during normal operation of the knob 40.

In the illustrated embodiment, as well as in those later described, theinteracting structure inhibits forward movement of the knob 40 along theaxis 120 in a direction away from the cover 84. In the illustratedembodiment, the interacting structure permits roll or rotationalmovement of the knob 40.

In certain embodiments, the interacting structure on the cover 84 is alip 92 positioned to engage the knob 40 and inhibit the knob 40 fromdisengaging from the rotary shaft 88. In the illustrated embodiment, thelip 92 is disposed in the hole 90 in the cover 84. In other embodiments,the lip 92 is not disposed in the hole 90. In certain embodiments, thelip 92 is spaced from a center of the hole 90 a distance that is notgreater than a radius of the knob 40. In this way, the knob 40 canengage both the rotary shaft 88 and the lip 92 at the same time.

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of the knob 40 from FIG. 4 showing aridge 114 on a front side 110 of the knob 40 for a user to selectivelyrotate the rotary shaft 88 of the printed circuit board 86 when the knob40 is engaged with the rotary shaft 88. Of course the front side 110 ofthe knob 40 could have other projecting structures such as, for example,levers or posts to facilitate manual manipulation by the user or thetechnician. In other embodiment, the knob 40 does not include structuresprojecting from the front side 110.

FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of the knob 40 from FIG. 4 showing ahub 102 and a first portion of the interacting structure configured forengagement with the rotary shaft 88 and a second portion of theinteracting structure on the cover 84, respectively. In certainembodiments, the hub 102 includes an opening/receptacle 100 sized andshaped to receive at least a portion of the rotary shaft 88 when thefacepack 30 is coupled to the base portion 12. The shape and size of theopening/receptacle 100 is selected to prevent free rotation of therotary shaft 88 relative to the opening/receptacle 100. In theillustrated embodiment, the opening/receptacle 100 and the rotary shaft88 have generally semicircle cross-sectional shapes.

In certain embodiments, a cross-section of the opening/receptacle 100matches a cross-section of the rotary shaft 88. Of course thecross-section of the opening/receptacle 100 need not match thecross-section of the rotary shaft 88 to prevent free rotation of therotary shaft 88 relative to the opening/receptacle 100. In certainembodiments, the opening/receptacle 100 forms a light press fit with therotary shaft 88. In certain embodiments, the opening/receptacle 100forms a net fit with the rotary shaft 88. In certain embodiments, theopening/receptacle 100 forms a slip fit over the rotary shaft 88. Incertain embodiments, the opening/receptacle 100 and the rotary shaft 88are both circular in cross-section and rely on friction for the rotaryshaft 88 to rotate in concert with the knob 40.

As seen in FIG. 6, a portion of the interacting structure on the knob 40comprises one or more posts 104. In certain embodiments, the one or moreposts 104 extend upwardly from a back side 112 of the knob 40. The knob40 desirably includes a pair of posts 104. The knob 40 can also includeadditional posts to suit a specific application. For example, where theknob 40 is relatively large, the knob 40 can include four posts 104annularly arranged for greater stability. In certain embodiments, the atleast one post 104 is a single post 104 that has a tubular shapesurrounding the hub 102.

In certain embodiments, each post 104 includes a shaft or shank 106,attached to and extending upwardly from the knob 40. The posts 104 canhave a variety of lengths and a variety of distances between them,depending upon the particular application and the particular cover 84with which they are to interact to mount the knob 40. In certainembodiment, the posts 104 are spaced a common distance or radius from arotational center of the knob 40.

In certain embodiments, each post 104 has a length of about 0.25 inchesto 1.0 inch, and more particularly a length of about 0.5 inches;however, longer or shorter lengths also are possible. In certainembodiments, the posts 104 are laterally spaced wide enough apart toaccommodate the hub 102. In certain embodiments, the posts 104 arespaced apart by a distance between ½ inch and 2 inches, and moreparticularly by a distance equal to about ⅗ inch. The shank 106 of eachpost 104 has a cross-section sufficient to perform its structuralfunction, as described in more detail below, and depends upon thematerial chosen for the knob 40 and shank 106. In certain embodiments,the shank 106 is configured to flex or deflect in a direction towardsthe axis 120 to allow the protrusion 108 to pass through the hole 90. Incertain embodiments, contact caused by dimensional interference betweenthe protrusion 108 and the hole 90 causes the shank 106 to flex ordeflect towards the axis 120. Once through the hole 90, the shank 106 atleast partially moves back towards its original position and theprotrusion 108 wraps around and contacts the lip 92. The illustratedposts 104 comprise a plastic material.

In certain embodiments, the posts 104 have a circular cross-sectionalshape. Of course the cross-sectional shape of the posts 104 is notlimited to circular and can have any other shape or combinations ofshapes. In the illustrated embodiment, the posts 104 have a generallytapering rectangular cross-sectional shape from the back side 112 of theknob 40 to a tip or distal end of the posts 104 outside of a protrusion108 region of the shank 106.

In certain embodiments, at least a portion of a surface of the post 104has an arcuate shape and is positioned to slide against a portion of thehole 90 in the cover 84 when the knob 40 is rotated relative to thecover 84. In this way, the arcuate shape of the post 104 increases asize of a contact area with the cover 84 facilitating ease of knob 40rotation.

In certain embodiments, at least one protrusion 108 extends outwardlyfrom the shank 106. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 108comprises an enlarged portion of the shank 106 at a location between theback side 112 of the knob 40 and the tip, distal end or head of theshank 106. In certain embodiments, the protrusion 108 is disposed at thetip at the end distal from the back side 112 of the knob 40.

At least a portion of the protrusion 108 of each post 104 is larger thanthe shank 106. In certain embodiments, the protrusion 108 has a maximumwidth of 1.2 to 2.5 times the width of the shank 106. In the illustratedembodiment, the protrusion 108 has a generally arcuate shape along alength of the shank 106. It will be understood, however, that theprotrusion 108 can take a variety of other shapes, such as for example,solid or hollow conical, arrowheads, barbs, spheres, mushroom heads, andother types of outwardly or radially projecting structures from theshank 106.

In certain embodiments, the knob 40 is disposed at least partially inthe hole 90 when assembled to the cover 84. In certain embodiments, thehub 102 engages with the rotary shaft 88 so as to transfer rotationalmotion of the knob 40 to the rotary shaft 88. In certain embodiments,the one or more posts 104 engage with the cover 84 so as to inhibitmovement of the knob 40 away from the cover 84.

FIG. 7 is a front view of the housing 76 of the facepack 30 with theknob 40 partially installed on the cover 84. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectionview taken along lines 8-8 of FIG. 7 showing the knob 40 partiallyinstalled on the rotary shaft 88. FIG. 9 is a close-up partial view fromFIG. 8 showing the hub 102 of the knob 40 partially installed on therotary shaft 88 and the one or more posts 104 aligned with the hole 90but not engaged with the lip 92 of the cover 84.

As explained above, an embodiment of the interacting structure forcoupling or mounting the knob 40 to the cover 84 is the one or moreposts 104 of the knob 40 and the lip 92 of the cover 84. In certainembodiments, a portion of the interacting structure desirably is formedon the knob 40 and another portion of the interacting structure isformed on the cover 84. As also explained above, when engaged, theinteracting structure inhibits movement of the knob 40 relative to thecover 84 in at least one degree of freedom (e.g., forward/backward orparallel to axis 120, up/down, left/right, yaw, pitch, or roll). In theillustrated embodiment, the interacting structure inhibits at leastforward movement of the knob 40 along the axis 120 in a direction awayfrom the cover 84. In the illustrated embodiment, the interactingstructure permits roll or rotational movement of the knob 40.

In certain embodiments, the interacting structure inhibits up/down andleft/right movements of the knob 40 relative to the cover 84. In certainembodiments, the interacting structure inhibits excessive yaw and pitchmovements of the knob 40 relative to the cover 84.

As shown in FIG. 9, the tip or distal portion of the shank 106 of thepost 104 is disposed in the hole 90 in the cover 84. In certainembodiments where the shank 106 tapers in a direction away from the backside 112 of the knob 40, the tapering shape facilitates alignment andinitial insertion of the one or more posts 104 into the hole 90. As isalso shown in FIG. 9, the protrusion 108 on the shank 106 has yet topass through the hole 90 to contact the lip 92 on the cover 84.

In certain embodiments, the knob 40 comprises a contact surface 116(most clearly shown in FIG. 6). In certain embodiments, the contactsurface 116 is configured to abut or closely abut a surface on the cover84 and inhibit at least backward movement of the knob 40 along the axis120 in a direction towards the base portion 12 when the knob 40 is fullyinstalled on the cover 84. For example, in certain embodiments, thecover 120 comprises an abutment surface 118. As is illustrated in FIG.9, at least a portion of the abutment surface 118 faces at least aportion of the contact surface 116. In FIG. 9, since the knob 40 is notfully installed on the cover 84, the abutment surface 118 is yet to bein contact with the contact surface 116 of the knob 40.

In certain embodiments, the contact surface 116 and the abutment surface118 have complementary annular shapes. In certain embodiments, theannular shapes allow contact to occur between the knob 40 and the cover84 independent of the rotational position of the knob 40 relative to thecover 84. In this way, the annular shapes facilitate the user rotatingthe knob 40. In certain embodiments, one or both of the contact surface116 and the abutment surface 118 does not have a continuous annularshape. In certain embodiments, the contact surface 116 and/or theabutment surface 118 span less than 360 degrees about the axis 120.

In certain embodiments, a rotary bearing or other friction reducingstructure is employed to facilitate rotation of the knob 40. In certainembodiments, the rotary bearing is disposed about the rotary shaft 88.In certain embodiments, the rotary bearing is disposed between thecontact surface 116 and the abutment surface 118.

FIG. 10 is similar to FIG. 7 except the knob 40 has been pushed furthertowards the cover 84 engaging the one or more posts 104 with the lip 92of the cover 84 so as to inhibit removal of the knob 40 from the rotaryshaft 88. FIG. 11 is a cross-section view taken along lines 11-11 ofFIG. 10 showing the knob 40 installed on the rotary shaft 88. FIG. 12 isa close-up partial view from FIG. 11 showing the hub 102 of the knob 40installed on the rotary shaft 88 and the one or more posts 104 engagedwith the lip 92 on the cover 84 inhibiting removal of the knob 40 fromthe rotary shaft 88.

As illustrated in FIG. 12, the interacting structure inhibits movementof the knob 40 relative to the cover 84 in at least one degree offreedom (e.g., forward/backward or parallel to axis 120, up/down,left/right, yaw, pitch, or roll). In the illustrated embodiment, theinteracting structure inhibits at least forward movement of the knob 40along the axis 120 in a direction away from the cover 84. In theillustrated embodiment, the interacting structure permits roll orrotational movement of the knob 40.

As shown in FIG. 12, the tip or distal portion of the shank 106 and theprotrusion 108 have passed through the hole 90 in the cover 84. Incertain embodiments where the shank 106 tapers in a direction away fromthe back side 112 of the knob 40, the tapering shape facilitates theprotrusion 108 on the shank 106 passing through the hole 90 to contactthe lip 92 on the cover 84.

As illustrated in FIG. 12, the contact surface 116 is abutting orclosely abutting the abutment surface 118 on the cover 84 and inhibitsat least backward movement of the knob 40 along the axis 120 in thedirection towards the base portion 12. In FIG. 12, since the knob 40 isfully installed on the cover 84, the abutment surface 118 is in contactwith or in close proximity to the contact surface 116 of the knob 40.

In some embodiments the housing 76 can comprise a first annular wall 124and a second annular wall 126 extending outward of the contact surface116. As best seen in FIG. 12, the abutment surface 118 sits between thefirst and second annular walls 124 and 126 when the knob 40 is installedto the housing 76. This arrangement may create a tortuous path that canprevent water from entering the interior of the facepack 30 andcontacting the circuit board 86.

In certain embodiments, the interacting structure which couples ormounts the knob 40 to the cover 84 not only inhibits removal of the knob40 from the cover 84 but also indirectly maintains engagement betweenthe rotary shaft 88 and the knob 40 when the facepack 30 is coupled tothe base portion 12. In this way in certain embodiments, friction is notneeded between the rotary shaft 88 and the opening/receptacle 100 toinhibit the user or technician from accidently removing the knob 40 fromthe rotary shaft 88 or the knob 40 falling off of the rotary shaft 88due to, for example, prolonged thermal cycling. Instead, the interactingstructure inhibits removal or dislodgment of the knob 40 from the cover84.

Without a significant friction fit between the rotary shaft 88 and theopening/receptacle 100, temperature changes or other environment factorsexperienced by the control box 10 that, for example, expand or contractcomponents within the control box 10 are less likely to cause tension onthe rotary shaft 88. For example, when changing temperatures cause thecover 84 and the printed circuit board 86 to slightly separate or moveapart, the separation can apply tension to the rotary shaft 88 until theknob 40 overcomes static friction and slides slightly away from theprinted circuit board 86 relieving at least some of the tension. Withoutthe interacting structure, over time this thermal cycling can create aslow procession of the knob 40 moving away from the cover 84 untileither the hub 102 disengages from the rotary shaft 88 rendering theknob 40 ineffective to control the control box 10 or the knob 40 fallsentirely off the rotary shaft 88. In addition, tension applied to therotary shaft 88 due to friction may be detrimental to the printedcircuit board 86 and operation of the control box 10 over time.

In certain embodiments the level of friction between the rotary shaft 88and the hub 102 is low enough to allow the hub 102 to slide along therotary shaft 88 before detrimental tension is created between the hub102 and the rotary shaft 88. In such an embodiment, the interactingstructure, not the friction between the rotary shaft 88 and the hub 102,inhibits removal of the knob 40 from the rotary shaft 88.

In certain embodiments, even though the interacting structure is notbetween the hub 102 and the rotary shaft 88, the interacting structureindirectly maintains the hub 102 in an operable position relative to therotary shaft 88 via the cover 84.

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of the module 128 from FIG. 2A whenthe module 128 is configured as the alternative control module 128. FIG.14 is a rear perspective view of the alternative control module 128. Incertain embodiments, the alternative control module 128 includes agroove 130 on an edge of the alternative control module 128. The groove130 is configured to engage with the guide 94 on the printed circuitboard 86 to maintain alignment between a connector 132 on thealternative control module 128 and the one or more contacts 96 as thealternative control module 128 is being inserted into the slot 42. Incertain embodiments, the connector 132 engages with the one or morecontacts 96 on the facepack 30 when the alternative control module 128is fully inserted into the slot 42.

In certain embodiments, the alternative control module 128 canfacilitate expanded communications, e.g. wireless communications. Incertain embodiments, the alternative control module 128 receives sensorinformation data and/or weather information data. This information mayinclude, but is not limited to, flow rate, rain event, temperature,weather information, predicted future weather patterns, solar radiation,wind speed, relative humidity, motion, voltage, current, and soilmoisture.

In certain embodiments, the sensor information data and/or weatherinformation data is received by an Internet of Things (IoT) cloud serverin communication with the alternative control module 128. In certainembodiments, the IoT cloud server determines or changes the stationprogramming based on the sensor information data and/or weatherinformation data and then send signals to the alternative control module128. In certain embodiments, a user enters a preferred irrigationschedule that is stored in the alternative control module 128 throughthe IoT cloud server. In certain embodiments, the IoT cloud serverdetermines a schedule percentage modifier value based on the sensorinformation data and/or weather information data and then sends theschedule percentage modifier value to the alternative control module128. In certain embodiments, the alternative control module 128 cancalculate a new irrigation schedule based on the original irrigationschedule and the schedule percentage modifier value. In this way, thealternative control module 128 need not receive the sensor informationdata and/or weather information data.

In certain embodiments, the alternative control module 128 communicateswith an external rain sensor, a local area network (LAN) or mobilecarrier's network, a soil moisture sensor, or a weather station. Forexample, the alternative control module 128 can utilize RF, infrared orother wireless circuitry (receiver or transmitter, or transceiver) tocommunicate with a remote device.

FIG. 15 is an exploded view of the alternative control module 128 fromFIG. 2A. In certain embodiments, the alternative control module 128comprises a housing 134 and a cover 136 securable to the housing 134. Incertain embodiments, the housing 134 and the cover 136 define aninterior space for one or more electronics 140. Of course thealternative control module 128 could comprises a single monolithic shellformed around the one or more electronics 140.

In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the cover 136 is locatedoutside the facepack 30 while the housing 134 is located within thefacepack 30 when the alternative control module 128 is fully insertedinto the slot 42. In certain embodiments, the cover 136 can comprises asolid outer surface to minimize dirt and other foreign contaminants fromentering the alternative control module 128 when the cover 136 isextending outside the slot 42. In certain embodiments, the cover 136 cancomprises a solid outer surface to facilitate manipulation of thealternative control module 128 by the user. The housing 124 or at leastthe portion of the alternative control module 128 disposed in thefacepack 30 can include vents or other openings in its outer surface tofacilitate thermal management of the one or more electronics 140.

In certain embodiments, the cover 136 secures to the housing 134 via oneor more complementary engagement structures including, for example,adhesives, fasteners, detents, projections, recesses, or other knownsecurement structures. In certain embodiments, a portion of the cover136 is press fit into the housing 134 securing the cover 136 to thehousing 134.

In certain embodiments, the alternative control module 128 comprises aprinted circuit board (PCB) 138 supporting the one or more electronics140. Exemplary electronics include a microcontroller 142, a memory 143,a wireless communication module 144, a switch 146, a processor and/orother electronic components known in the art. In certain embodiments,the wireless communication module 144 is implemented as a WiFi moduleand/or a cellular module. In certain embodiments, the wirelesscommunication module 144 comprises an antenna 145. In certainembodiments, the microcontroller 142 and the memory 143 manage allstation programming.

In certain embodiments, the alternative control module 128 comprises adamper 148. In certain embodiments, the damper 148 attenuates vibrationsexperienced by the PCB 138 and the one or more electronics 140. Incertain embodiments, the damper 148 is disposed within the alternativecontrol module 128 and in simultaneous contact with the cover 136 andthe PCB 138.

In certain embodiments, the one or more electronics 140 comprises thewireless communication module 144 such as, for example, the Wi-Fi moduleand/or the cellular module. In the illustrated embodiment, the wirelesscommunication module 144 is on the same printed circuit board 138 asother electronics and located within the alternative control module 128.In an embodiment, power for the alternative control module 128 isderived from the control box 10 via the connector 132.

In certain embodiments, the Wi-Fi module connects the alternativecontrol module 128 to the LAN via a Wi-Fi connection. In certainembodiments, multiple control boxes 10 with multiple alternative controlmodules 128 connect to a single LAN. In a further embodiment, multiplecontrol boxes 10 may be serviced by a single alternative control module128.

In certain embodiments, the wireless communication module 144 comprisesthe cellular module. In certain embodiments, the cellular modulecommunicates to the Internet via a mobile carrier's network. Dependingon the location and carrier, various standards, such as GPRS, GSM, andCDMA, and the like may apply.

The wireless communication module 144 optionally comprises a sensorinput capability, and thereby allow the one or more electronics 140 toreceive sensor information when controlling the control box 10. Thisinformation may include, but is not limited to, flow rate, rain event,temperature, solar radiation, wind speed, relative humidity, motion,voltage, current, and soil moisture.

In certain embodiments, the user controls the alternative control module128 from an Internet enabled user device via its web browser, customsoftware, or a dedicated application. Internet enabled user devicesinclude tablets, smart phones, computers, laptops, tablets, and thelike.

In certain embodiments, the user sends commands to a webpage provided bythe alternative control module 128. In certain embodiments, the userinteracts with an application running on their Internet enabled userdevice. In certain embodiments, the application is written for variousplatforms, such as iPhone, Android, or the like. The application thencommunicates with the alternative control module 128.

In certain embodiments, the alternative control module 128 communicateswith an IoT cloud server on the Internet. In certain embodiments, a useraccesses the IoT cloud server via, for example, a router that isconnected to an Internet Service Provider (ISP). The IoT cloud serverhosts an application that provides the user with control and monitoringcapability of the control box 10 via the alternative control module 128.In this way, the alternative control module 128 works in harmony withthe IoT cloud server to allow the user to enter and monitor allirrigation functions through the IoT cloud server via their Internetenabled user device. In certain embodiments, the IoT cloud server is aHydraWise server(https://www.hunterindustries.com/irrigation-product/hydrawise-cloud-software).

In certain embodiments, the alternative control module 128, via the IoTcloud server, turns the control box 10 into a smart controller. Incertain embodiments, the IoT cloud server receives sensor informationdata and/or weather information data. This information may include, butis not limited to, flow rate, rain event, temperature, weatherinformation, predicted future weather patterns, solar radiation, windspeed, relative humidity, motion, voltage, current, and soil moisture.With this data in certain embodiments, the IoT cloud server fine tunesits control of the irrigation system to water only when necessary. Incertain embodiments, the IoT cloud server utilizes predicted futureweather patterns to modify the irrigation as required based on weatherinformation data and/or other sensor information data.

In certain embodiments, the IoT cloud server employs an automatedwatering schedule that uses information about environmental conditionsto ensure the user's plants get the optimum amount of water. In certainembodiments, the IoT cloud server, via the alternative control module128, will vary the watering frequency based on actual evaporation andrainfall in the user's area on a day-to-day basis. In certainembodiments, the IoT cloud server can adjust the length of wateringwithout adjusting frequency based on weather information data. Forexample, the IoT cloud server can select the most accurate weatherinformation available to fine tune its control of the irrigation system.

In certain embodiments, with the alternative control module 128installed into the control box 10, the control box 10 is operated by theIoT cloud server. In certain embodiments, the alternative control module128 manages the entire irrigation programming functions then sends asignal to the microcontroller in the control box 10 to turn a givenstation on or off when required. In certain embodiments, themicrocontroller in the control box 10 switches the outputs on or off,but only when instructed to do so by the alternative control module 128.In certain embodiments the microcontroller 142 can supersede, override,or replace the programming executed by the processor of the control box10. In certain embodiments, the alternative control module can inhibitthe functions of one or more of the operator inputs 36 and 40 on thefacepack 30.

In certain embodiments, the switch 146 is configured to receive one ormore control signals from the user. In certain embodiments, the controlsignal received by the switch 146 is an on-signal and/or an off-signal.For example, the user can send a control signal via the switch 146 tothe alternative control module 128 that instructs the microcontroller142 to begin a provisioning mode that allows the processes necessary toidentify the alternative control module 128 with a user account on theIoT server.

In certain embodiments, repetitive activations of the switch 146 providedifferent instructions to the microcontroller 142. In this way incertain embodiments, a single activation provides a first instructionand two repetitive activations provide a second instruction. In certainembodiments, a visual and or audible acknowledgement for receipt of thecontrol signal is provided by the alternative control module 128. Incertain embodiments, the alternative control module 128 comprises one ormore visual indicators and/or audible indicators.

In certain embodiments, the user need not directly contact the switch146. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 136 comprises a button 150positioned over the switch 146. In certain embodiments, the user pressesan outer surface of the button 150 to activate the switch 146. In theillustrated embodiment, the cover 136 comprises one or more slitsdefining in part the button 150. Of course the cover 136 need notcomprise slits to define the button 150. To minimize dirt and otherforeign contaminants from entering the slits around the button 150,certain embodiments comprise a shield 152. In certain embodiments, theshield 152 comprises a flexible material that allows the user to pressboth the shield 152 and the button 150 at the same time. In certainembodiments, at least a portion of the shield 152 is transparent. Thetransparent portion may allow the user to observe the visual indicatoracknowledging receipt of the user's control signal entered via thebutton 150.

Returning to FIG. 3, and also considering FIGS. 16 and 17, it is seenthat the second wall 48 (e.g., the bottom wall) of the base portion 12defines one or more openings 154. FIG. 16 is a front, left, bottomperspective view showing the base portion 12 comprising the one or moreopenings 154 for connections to the control box 10. The power cord 28 isshown extending through the one or more openings 154. FIG. 17 is similarto FIG. 16 except the control box 10 is configured to be hardwired tothe power grid as an alternative to employing the power cord 28 in FIG.16.

In certain embodiments, the one or more openings 154 are disposed in thesecond wall 48 of the base portion 12. In certain embodiments, an amountof overlap of the base portion 12 by the outer cover 14 provides bothunobstructed access to the one or more openings 154 and a barrier todirt and other foreign contaminants from entering the control box 10. Incertain embodiments, a relief or cut-out is provided in the outer cover14 that aligns with the one or more openings 154 when the outer cover 14is in the closed position. In certain embodiments, the relief or cut-outprovided in the outer cover 14 aligns with the one or more openings 154when the outer cover 14 is in the closed position. In the illustratedembodiment, the outer cover 14 comprises a cut-out in the proximity ofan extended fitting 164. In certain embodiments, the relief or cut-outin the outer cover 14 may increase a size of the partially coveredsecond wall 48 for connecting to a pipe or conduit.

In certain embodiments, the one or more openings 154 are disposed inother walls of the base portion 12 or in more than one wall of the baseportion 12. For example, in certain embodiments, the one or moreopenings 154 can be disposed in either, or both, the first wall 46 andthe third wall 50. Other walls and combinations of walls of the baseportion 12 are also within the scope of this disclosure.

In certain embodiments, specific openings within the one or moreopenings 154 are sized and/or located in the base portion 12 forspecific cords, cables, and/or wires. Cords, cables, and wires can beemployed for transmission of power, station signals, sensor informationdata, and/or weather information data. In certain embodiments, the powercord 28, the cables, and/or wires each pass through different openingsof the one or more openings 154. For example, in certain embodiments,power is provided to the control box 10 via a first opening, stationsignals are provided via cables and/or wires through a second opening,and sensor information signals are provided via cables and/or wiresthrough a third opening. Such an arrangement may mitigate electricalinterference between cables and wires that conduct signals from powercords.

In certain embodiments, the one or more openings 154 are sized andshaped to facilitate, for example, the power cord 28 and/or one or morecables or wires passing through the base portion 12. In certainembodiments, the one or more openings 154 are sized and shaped tofacilitate, for example, attachment of different sizes of pipes andconduits to the base portion 12. For example, the one or more openings154 can be sized and shaped to connect to a plurality of pipes orconduits having different sizes or geometry. In this way, the user ortechnician has options for connecting different pipes or conduits to thesame control box 10. In certain embodiment, the one or more openings 154comprises at least two different sized/shaped openings. In certainembodiments, the one or more openings 154 are configured to connect toone or more ½ inch, ¾ inch, 1 inch, and/or 1¼ inch pipes or conduits. Incertain embodiments, the pipes or conduits have a thickness of schedule40.

In certain embodiments, the one or more openings 154 are aligned withthe power cord 28 and/or the one or more terminals 68 of the housing 76to simplify cable management through the base portion 12 and out of thecontrol box 10.

Certain embodiments of the control box 10 can be designed for use withmetal (i.e., conductive) pipes and conduits (brass or aluminum, forexample), while other embodiments are designed for use withnonconductive polyvinylchloride (PVC) pipes or conduits. Certainembodiments of the control box 10 may be designed to satisfy localrequirements as to conduit size or materials.

In certain embodiments, an opening 156 of the one or more openings 154is configured to engage with a conduit adapter provided by the user ortechnician. In certain embodiments, the opening 156 is sized toaccommodate the conduit adapter and/or one or more bushings, locknuts,and/or spacers. In certain embodiments, the opening 156 provides theuser or technician with a connection for attaching a size or type ofpipe or conduit that is not provided by the control box 10. For example,in certain embodiments, the opening 156 comprises internal threads toengage with the external threads on the conduit adapter. In certainembodiments, the opening 156 comprises an internal wall configured toprovide a slip or glue fit with the conduit adapter. In certainembodiments, the opening 156 is sized and shaped to engage with aconduit adapter that is a reducer or adapter to a desired size pipe orconduit.

In certain embodiments, one or more of the one or more openings 154comprises a knockout 158 covering the one or more openings 154. In theillustrated embodiment, the opening 156 comprises the knockout 158. Theuser or technician may leave the knockout 158 in place covering theopening 156 or remove the knockout 158 to utilize the opening 158.

In certain embodiments, the one or more openings 154 comprise one ormore recessed bores 160 and/or one or more extended bores/bosses 164.For example, in certain embodiments, the one or more openings 154 areconfigured as the recessed bore 160 to receive an end of the pipe orconduit within the second wall 48. In certain embodiments where the oneor more openings 154 are configured as the recessed bore 160, the one ormore openings 154 include a tubular passage, which defines asubstantially straight bore portion into the second wall 48 leading to acircumferential detent 162. The detent 162 defines a shoulder for thebore portion. The shoulder limits the maximum insertion depth for theend of the pipe or conduit into the second wall 48.

In certain embodiments, the one or more openings 154 are configured asthe extended bore 164 to receive an end of the pipe or conduit. Whenconnecting to the extended bore 164 in certain embodiments, the end ofthe pipe or conduit need not pass through the second wall 48 and insteadmerely abuts the second wall 48. For example in certain embodiments, theend of the pipe or conduit can be secured solely within the extendedbore 164. In this way, the extended bore 164 provides adequate stabilityto the connected pipe or conduit. By including an extended bore 164, thesecond wall 48 can accommodate pipes and conduits that have a greaterrange of diameters than with only recessed bores 160. In certainembodiments, the extended bore 164 allows the user or technician toattach a pipe or conduit that has a diameter that exceeds a width of thesecond wall 48. For example, an extended bore 164 can provide thecontrol box 10 with an opening that has a greater diameter than offeredby the recessed bore 160. In certain embodiments, the extended bore 164allows the control box 10 to maintain a low profile while alsoaccommodating connections to pipes and conduits that are too large forconnecting to the recessed bore 160.

In certain embodiments that have an extended bore 164, the one or moreopenings 154 include a tubular body, which at an upper end defines asubstantially straight inner bore portion leading to a circumferentialdetent 166. The detent 166 defines a shoulder for the bore portion whenthe one or more openings 154 are configured as an extended bore 164.

In certain embodiments that have an extended boss 164, the one or moreopenings 154 include a tubular body, which at an upper end defines anouter circumference for receiving the end of the pipe or conduit. Incertain embodiments, the pipe or conduit is slid along the outercircumference until the end of the pipe or conduit abuts the second wall48. In certain embodiments, a fin or projection on the outercircumference prevents the end of the pipe or conduit from abutting thesecond wall 48.

In certain embodiments, the end of the pipe or conduit is secured by oneor both of the second wall 48 and/or the extended bore/boss 164. Incertain embodiment, the one or more openings 154 are configured for athreaded fit, a slip fit, an adhesive fit, or any other engagementstructure known by a person having ordinary skill in the art forconnecting the one or more openings 154 to a pipe or conduit.

FIGS. 18-24 illustrate an embodiment of the base portion and facepack.Various attributes of the base portion and the facepack are shown inbroken lines to illustrate that they may or may not be present and thattheir position, orientation, shape, style, number, etc. can be differentaccording to the different embodiments. The broken lines form no part ofthe design. For example, FIGS. 18-24 show the base portion and facepackwith all or most of the side walls and back side in broken lines. Theside walls and back side are shown in broken lines to indicate that theside walls and back side can comprise various components, shapes,thicknesses, cavities, protrusions, according to different embodiments.Thus, the features illustrated in broken lines may or may not be presentand the position, orientation, depth, shape, etc. of those features maydiffer according to different embodiments. Dot-dot-dash lines are usedto illustrate boundary lines and also form no part of the claimeddesigns.

For expository purposes, the term “horizontal” as used herein is definedas a plane parallel to the plane or surface of the floor of the area inwhich the system being described is used or the method being describedis performed, regardless of its orientation. The term “floor” can beinterchanged with the term “ground.” The term “vertical” refers to adirection perpendicular to the horizontal as just defined. Terms such as“above,” “below,” “bottom,” “top,” “side,” “higher,” “lower,” “upper,”“over,” and “under,” are defined with respect to the horizontal plane.

As used herein, the terms “attached,” “connected,” “mated,” and othersuch relational terms should be construed, unless otherwise noted, toinclude removable, moveable, fixed, adjustable, and/or releasableconnections or attachments. The connections/attachments can includedirect connections and/or connections having intermediate structurebetween the two components discussed.

The terms “approximately”, “about”, “generally” and “substantially” asused herein represent an amount close to the stated amount that stillperforms a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example,the terms “approximately”, “about”, “generally,” and “substantially” mayrefer to an amount that is within less than 10% of the stated amount.

While the preferred embodiments of the present inventions have beendescribed above, it should be understood that they have been presentedby way of example only, and not of limitation. It will be apparent topersons skilled in the relevant art that various changes in form anddetail can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scopeof the inventions. Thus, the present inventions should not be limited bythe above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only inaccordance with the following claims and their equivalents. Furthermore,while certain advantages of the inventions have been described herein,it is to be understood that not necessarily all such advantages may beachieved in accordance with any particular embodiment of the inventions.Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that theinventions may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves oroptimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein withoutnecessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggestedherein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A landscape control box comprising: a baseportion having a plurality of side walls and a back wall forming aninterior; and a facepack supported by the base portion, the facepackcomprising: a printed circuit board supporting a rotary shaft extendingalong an axis in a first direction; a cover supporting the printedcircuit board so that the printed circuit board is disposed between thecover and the base portion at least when the facepack is supported bythe base portion, the cover having an abutment surface and a hole, thehole having a surface and being aligned with the rotary shaft; and aknob disposed at least partially in the hole, the knob having areceptacle, one or more posts, and a contact surface, the receptacleengaging with the rotary shaft so as to transfer rotational motion ofthe knob to the rotary shaft while allowing the knob to slide along theaxis in both the first direction and in a second direction opposite tothe first direction to prevent tension between the knob and the rotaryshaft due to temperature changes and other environmental factors, theone or more posts having a shank and a protrusion, the protrusion beingsized and shaped to engage with the surface of the hole so as to inhibitmovement of the knob in the first direction away from the cover, thecontact surface abutting the abutment surface of the cover when the knobis pressed against the cover, wherein the one or more posts comprise adistal portion, and wherein the distal portion has a tapering shape. 2.The landscape control box of claim 1, wherein the cover furthercomprises a first annular wall and a second annular wall, the firstannular wall and the second annular wall surrounding at least a portionof the hole so as to prevent water from entering the interior of thebase portion.
 3. The landscape control box of claim 2, wherein theabutment surface is disposed between the first annular wall and thesecond annular wall.
 4. The landscape control box of claim 1, furthercomprising an outer cover, the outer cover being configured to movebetween an open position and a closed position, at least a portion ofthe facepack being disposed between the base portion and the outer coverat least when the outer cover is in the closed position.
 5. Thelandscape control box of claim 1, further comprising a power supply, thepower supply being sized and shaped to be at least partially disposed inthe interior.
 6. The landscape control box of claim 1, wherein theprinted circuit board comprises one or more terminals, and wherein thefacepack comprises a terminal cover, the terminal cover being disposedso as to prevent a user from accessing the one or more terminals when ina first position and allow the user to access the one or more terminalswhen in a second position.
 7. The landscape control box of claim 1,wherein the abutment surface has an annular shape, and wherein theabutment surface faces the contact surface of the knob.
 8. The landscapecontrol box of claim 1, further comprising a rotary selection switchsupported by the printed circuit board, the rotary selection switchbeing coupled to the rotary shaft.
 9. The landscape control box of claim1, wherein the facepack further comprises a screen.
 10. The landscapecontrol box of claim 1, wherein the facepack further comprises one ormore buttons.
 11. The landscape control box of claim 1, wherein thefacepack further comprises a slot sized and shaped to guide at least aportion of a module to pass therethrough and electrically connect withthe printed circuit board while the facepack is supported by the baseportion.
 12. The landscape control box of claim 11, further comprising aremovable door disposed over the slot.
 13. The landscape control box ofclaim 1, wherein the distal portion is part of the protrusion.
 14. Thelandscape control box of claim 1, wherein the distal portion is part ofthe shank.
 15. A landscape control box comprising: a base portion havinga plurality of side walls and a back wall forming an interior; and afacepack supported by the base portion, the facepack comprising: acomponent supporting a rotary shaft extending along an axis in a firstdirection; a cover supporting the component so that the component isdisposed between the cover and the base portion at least when thefacepack is supported by the base portion, the cover having aninteracting structure and an abutment surface, the interacting structureof the cover comprising a hole, the hole having a surface and beingaligned with the rotary shaft; and a knob disposed on the cover, theknob having a receptacle, an interacting structure, and a contactsurface, the receptacle being configured to operably couple to therotary shaft so as to transfer rotational motion of the knob to therotary shaft while allowing the knob to slide along the axis in both thefirst direction and in a second direction opposite to the firstdirection to prevent tension between the knob and the rotary shaft dueto temperature changes and other environmental factors, the interactingstructure of the knob comprising a shank and a protrusion, theprotrusion being sized and shaped to engage with the surface of the holeso as to inhibit movement of the knob in the first direction away fromthe cover, the contact surface abutting the abutment surface of thecover when the knob is pressed against the cover, wherein theinteracting structure of the knob comprises a distal portion, andwherein the distal portion has a tapering shape.
 16. The landscapecontrol box of claim 15, wherein the cover further comprises a firstannular wall and a second annular wall, the first annular wall and thesecond annular wall surrounding at least a portion of the hole so as toprevent water from entering the interior of the base portion.
 17. Thelandscape control box of claim 16, wherein the abutment surface isdisposed between the first annular wall and the second annular wall. 18.The landscape control box of claim 15, wherein the abutment surface hasan annular shape, and wherein the abutment surface faces the contactsurface of the knob.
 19. The landscape control box of claim 15, whereinthe distal portion is part of the protrusion.
 20. The landscape controlbox of claim 15, wherein the distal portion is part of the shank.
 21. Alandscape control box comprising: a base portion having a plurality ofside walls and a back wall forming an interior; and a facepack supportedby the base portion, the facepack comprising: a rotary shaft extendingalong an axis in a first direction; a cover supporting the rotary shaftso that at least a portion of the rotary shaft is disposed between thecover and the base portion at least when the facepack is supported bythe base portion, the cover having a first interacting structure and anabutment surface, the interacting structure of the cover comprising ahole, the hole having a surface and being aligned with the rotary shaft;and a knob disposed on the cover, the knob having a hub, a secondinteracting structure, and a contact surface, the hub being configuredto operably couple to the rotary shaft so as to transfer rotationalmotion of the knob to the rotary shaft while allowing the knob to slidealong the axis in both the first direction and in a second directionopposite to the first direction to prevent tension between the knob andthe rotary shaft due to temperature changes and other environmentalfactors, the second interacting structure comprising a shank and aprotrusion, the surface of the hole engaging with the protrusion so asto inhibit movement of the knob in the first direction away from thecover, the contact surface abutting the abutment surface of the coverwhen the knob is pressed against the cover, wherein the secondinteracting structure comprise a distal portion, and wherein the distalportion has a tapering shape.
 22. The landscape control box of claim 21,wherein a level of friction between the knob and the rotary shaft allowsthe knob to slide at least slightly along the axis in both the firstdirection and the second direction while the first interacting structureand the second interacting structure inhibit removal of the knob fromthe rotary shaft.
 23. The landscape control box of claim 21, wherein thedistal portion is part of the protrusion.
 24. The landscape control boxof claim 21, wherein the distal portion is part of the shank.